PookyCake
Business · November 202510/10
Opened in 1989 as Markham’s Embassy Suites and then re-branded to Hilton Suites in 2002, this hotel is something of an icon. Its front, mostly glass façade, is eye-catching and has, in many ways, beco...Opened in 1989 as Markham’s Embassy Suites and then re-branded to Hilton Suites in 2002, this hotel is something of an icon. Its front, mostly glass façade, is eye-catching and has, in many ways, become synonymous with Markham and Metro Toronto. Indeed, I was elated to be attending a conference here exactly because the hotel is so well-known. Those of us who grew up in the early to mid-1990s will understand this: I remember watching old Canadian gameshows like Supermarket Sweep, before heading off to school, and seeing what was then “Embassy Suites” being advertised. And now, here I am! It was a fun moment.
Full disclosure: I did not stay at the Hilton Markham Suites; however, I did partake in a multi-day conference here. The conference was so-so, but the hotel, conference centre, staff and service were all easily 5-stars. The service staff were “on the ball,” as they say, and – shockingly – the catering was phenomenal! As someone who’s attended numerous conferences over the years I can say, without hesitation, that the catering @ Hilton Markham Suites was easily the best I’ve had at these sorts of events. For dinner on evening #1, for example, we had: Dim Sum, sushi, skewered chicken, charcuterie, ravioli, chow mein, seasonal veggies, fresh fruit, cake, and panna cotta. Then, for lunch on days 2 and 3 we didn’t just have the usual stale sandwiches that are usually served at big conferences. Quite the contrary! Instead, we had short ribs, mashed potatoes, white fish, salmon, pasta salad, Greek salad, and veggies. In short, this was the first time – in a long time – I didn’t duck out during lunch and dinner to eat elsewhere.
I have to say, if the quality of the conference space and catering was of such a high level, it REALLY makes me wish I could’ve stayed in the actual hotel (most conference attendees were booked here, but latecomers had to stay elsewhere). The main lobby, with its marble columns, dual spiral staircases, and attractive lobby bar hint at the excellence this hotel offers. I don’t usually fawn over a hotel, but this one was most enjoyable to visit and at least partake in the conference facilities. Perhaps next time I’m in the area I’ll actually get to stay here . . .Show More
